THE MANAGERIAL FUNCTION IN UTILIZING HEALTH OPERATIONAL ASSISTANCE (BOK) TO REDUCE STUNTING RATES: A STUDY AT THE CIMAHI PUBLIC HEALTH CENTER (UPTD PUSKESMAS) IN KUNINGAN REGENCY

Abstract

Stunting remains a critical public health issue in Indonesia, with far-reaching implications for the quality of future human resources. The Health Operational Assistance Fund (Bantuan Operasional Kesehatan or BOK), allocated to community health centers (Puskesmas), plays a vital role in supporting stunting reduction programs. This study examines the application of the fourcore management functionsplanning, organizing, actuating, and controllingin the utilization of BOK funds at the Cimahi Health Center, Kuningan Regency, to reduce stunting prevalence. Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis. The findings reveal that while internal planning and organizing were relatively effective, limitations in cross-sectoral coordination, inadequate risk analysis, and weak field monitoring hindered the program’s optimal outcomes. The BOK allocation significantly increased from IDR 53,800,000 in 2023 to IDR 201,858,000 in 2024. However, the stunting prevalence also rose from 7.0% to 7.9%. This increase is likely influenced by external factors such as socio-economic challenges or suboptimal program implementation. These findings suggest that the issue lies not only in budget availability but also in the effectiveness of management and program execution. Therefore, enhancing cross-sectoral coordination, conducting deeper risk assessments, and strengthening field monitoring are essential strategies for reducing stunting prevalence. Recommendations include improving intersectoral collaboration, implementing more robust risk analyses, conducting regular training, and reinforcing field-based monitoring to ensure the effective use of BOK funds in combating stunting.